Elections commissioner on the clock; assembly echoes calls for inclusivity

The sometimes controversial appointment of Alberta’s first election commissioner is officially official.

Minister Responsible for Democratic Renewal Christina Gray signed off on an order in council this week that installs Lorne Gibson in the position until May 14, 2023.

Gibson was entangled in controversy with the former Progressive Conservative government nearly a decade ago.

His appointment caused heated debate in the legislature recently, with the opposition insisting he wasn’t the right man for the job. Mind you, they weren’t overly keen on the creation of the office to begin with.

Gibson’s $1-million office will investigate violations of political fundraising and advertising rules. His job posting touted a salary ranging from $152,818 to $212,801.

STANDING AGAINST INTOLERANCE

The legislative assembly recognized the international day against homophobia, transphobia and biphobia Thursday.

“It matters how we treat each other. No one deserves to be discriminated against, denied basic services or to lose their life because of who they are or whom they love,” Premier Rachel Notley said in a statement.

Members of the Imperial Sovereign Court of the Wild Rose, a non-profit that raises funds for organizations providing services to LGBTQ communities, were in the gallery, rocking tiaras, gowns and dapper suits. They were the guests of Strathcona-Sherwood Park NDP MLA Estefania CortesVargas.

“On this day #IDAHOT & everyday, ‘we stand with those that have experienced violence, job loss, bullying, stigma because of who they are and for who they love,’” CortesVargas tweeted after the session.